Homeward Bound Program Five Year Retrospective Evaluation · 2019. 7. 10. · Homeward Bound Past...
Transcript of Homeward Bound Program Five Year Retrospective Evaluation · 2019. 7. 10. · Homeward Bound Past...
Homeward Bound Program
Five Year Retrospective Evaluation
Key Findings and Recommendations
March 8, 2018
Evaluation Conducted with Support from Constellation Consulting Group
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Acknowledgements The Homeward Bound Program’s Five Year Retrospective Evaluation Report is the result of
extensive collaboration among individuals and organizations that have contributed in numerous
ways to support this evaluation and the Homeward Bound program. This report is the first of
two that examine the extent to which the Homeward Bound program reduces poverty for single
mothers in Ontario. The findings of this project are contributing to a body of evidence that
highlights programming that is improving the socioeconomic outcomes for Ontarians living in
poverty.
First, we thank Ontario’s Treasury Board Secretariat without whose funding, through the Local
Poverty Reduction Fund, we would not have been able to conduct this evaluation. We would
also like to thank Ontario Trillium Foundation for administering the funding for this project -
without your help and support this work would not have been possible.
In addition to the funders and administrators of this project, we are grateful to all of the
Homeward Bound survey respondents who took the time to participate in the evaluation. We
appreciate your willingness to share your experiences and perspectives toward the
enhancement of the program.
We are indebted to our Homeward Bound staff members and WoodGreen’s Strategy and
Innovation team for their ongoing support of this project. Your dedication, passion and hard
work every day is what makes the difference in the lives of program participants.
Finally, WoodGreen would like to thank all our program donors and funders who have supported
Homeward Bound since its inception. Without your belief, commitment and contributions we
would not be able to deliver this program. Your help makes this all possible.
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Contents Acknowledgements................................................................................................................................. i
1.0 Introduction & Background ...................................................................................................... 1
2.0 What is the Context for Homeward Bound? ............................................................................. 2
3.0 How Do We Know Homeward Bound is Working? .................................................................. 4
3.1 Evaluation Methods ...................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Evaluation Limitations................................................................................................................... 6
3.3 SROI Analysis Limitations .............................................................................................................. 7
4.0 Who Was Involved in the Evaluation? ......................................................................................... 8
5.0 What Was Found Through the 2017 Evaluation? ................................................................... 11
5.1 Factors Contributing to Homeward Bound Completion ................................................. 11
5.2 Housing Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates ..................................................... 12
5.3 Education Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates ................................................ 13
5.4 Employment & Income Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates ........................ 14
5.5 Outcomes for Children of Homeward Bound Graduates ............................................... 18
5.6 Perspectives on Program Satisfaction and Personal Impact ......................................... 21
5.7 Areas for Program Improvement ............................................................................................ 22
6.0 How Much Social Value is Generated by Homeward Bound Outcomes? .................... 23
7.0 Where do We Go from Here? ...................................................................................................... 25
Appendix A: Survey Questions ........................................................................................................... 27
Appendix B: Resources Consulted .................................................................................................... 32
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1.0 Introduction & Background Homeward Bound is an innovative program designed to support inadequately housed or
homeless mother-led families in earning college diplomas, gaining employment, and achieving
self-sufficiency. The primary goal of the program is to enable un/underemployed and/or
precariously housed single mothers to gain employment with family-sustaining wages so that
they and their families can move out of poverty. The program was developed and piloted by
WoodGreen Community Services (WoodGreen) in Toronto in 2004 and has since created positive
impacts for vulnerable single mothers and their children.
The program consists of four years of wrap-around intensive services that systematically
eliminate barriers for single mothers to move out of poverty. In the first year of the program,
participants engage in educational upgrading and skills development activities in preparation for
the subsequent two years of the program, where participants work towards obtaining a college
diploma. In the last year of the program, with a college diploma in hand, participants are
supported in developing key employability skills and gaining work experience through internships
facilitated by the Homeward Bound Industry Council.1 By the end of the program, participants
have increased their educational attainment, employment experience, and skills that all
contribute to obtaining family-sustaining employment, stable housing, and positive futures for
themselves and their children.
The program recognizes that, while single mothers have inherent strength and resilience, they
often face disproportionate barriers to achieving their education and employment goals. In
order to reduce barriers and bolster participant success the program provides housing, case
management, on-site child care/after school youth programming, and college tuition. Trauma
counselling and emotional support are available, as well as parenting training and financial and
computer literacy upgrading.
With support from Ontario’s Local Poverty Reduction Fund, in 2016 WoodGreen engaged
external evaluation experts at Constellation Consulting Group to objectively assess the impact of
the program on individuals who had participated in the last five years (since 2012). The objective
of the research has been to better understand the outcomes, successes and challenges of
Homeward Bound so that the program can be continuously improved and effectively scaled.
In parallel to the evaluation conducted with Homeward Bound participants, WoodGreen has
been supported by Constellation Consulting Group in evolving a Social Return on Investment
(SROI) model created by Boston Consulting Group in 2013 to adhere to international standards
and more comprehensively assess the value of social outcomes created by the program. The
result of an SROI analysis is an SROI ratio that reveals how much social value is created by a
1 See www.woodgreen.org for more details.
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2.0 What is the Context for Homeward Bound? In Toronto in 2016, approximately 20% of families were headed by a lone parent 2 with an
estimated 83% of lone parent families being female-led.3 The unemployment rate amongst
single mothers living in Toronto was 13% compared with 7% amongst all adults living in
Toronto,4 and the median household income in Toronto was only $45,440 compared with a
median household income of $86,260 amongst coupled families.5 Many single mothers in
Toronto who do not have employment income rely on income support through Ontario Works or
the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).6 Across Ontario, it is estimated that up to
18,600 single parents’ primary source of income is Ontario Works and/or child support
payments.7 According to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA), however, income
provided by Ontario Works leaves lone parent families short of an income level that would place
them above the poverty line. In a 2016 report on Ontario Works the CCPA estimated the poverty
gap for a single parent with one child relying on Ontario Works was 35% and that it would take
an additional $10,386 in support to move these families above the poverty line.8
Ongoing increases in cost of living in Toronto and limited resources within female-led lone
parent families puts significant pressure on families and creates conditions in which experiences
of poverty are common. Even when single mothers are not living in poverty, they often hover
precariously above the poverty level because they are usually the sole income earner, and are
not earning enough income to build assets; if this sole income earner becomes unemployed or
incapacitated, then, poverty instantly results.9 In part due to this precarious position, women
parenting on their own enter homeless and women’s shelters at twice the rate of two-parent
families.10 Domestic violence against women and children is also a contributing factor to
homelessness and when women become homeless, they are subsequently at an increased risk of
violence, sexual assault and exploitation.11
The experiences of poverty and homelessness impacting single mothers are also impacting their
children. According to Statistics Canada, children living in a lone-parent family are three times as
likely to live in a low-income household as children in two-parent families.12 Approximately 22%
of children in Toronto live in a lone parent family, with 89% living with a female lone parent.13
Research has shown that children living in poverty often have poor academic performance,
2 21.2% of families in Toronto and 17.9% of families in the GTA reported as lone parent census families; City of Toronto (2017). 3 Based on 2011 Census data with 83% in the Toronto Census Metropolitan Area, and 84% in the Toronto Census Subdivision; Statistics Canada (2012). 4 National Labour Force Survey data, 2016. 5 Statistics Canada. (2017). 6 Baskin (2008) 7 Monsebraaten, L. (2016, February 26). 8 Thiessen, K. (2016). Page 13. 9 Ambert, A-M. (2006) Page 7. 10 YWCA Canada (2009). 11 YWCA Canada (2009). 12 Statistics Canada. (2017). 13 City of Toronto (2017)
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delayed cognitive development, less participation in extra-curricular activities, lower career
aspirations, interrupted school attendance, lower university attendance, an increased risk of
illiteracy, and higher drop-out rates.14 They are also more likely to have Adverse Childhood
Experiences (ACEs) that negatively impact mental health and contribute to long-term negative
outcomes.15 Overall, individuals who grow up in poverty are more likely to become lone parents
themselves, perpetuating a cycle of intergenerational poverty and barriers to advancement.16
Despite the inherent resilience of single mothers and their deep commitment to providing for
and supporting their children, they often face multiple barriers to exiting poverty, including
barriers to furthering their education and gaining employment. In a study conducted with single
mothers attending post-secondary education institutions in Ontario, Ajandi highlights the ways in
which limited social capital, low child care availability and affordability, social pressures, and
social stigma create barriers to single mothers as they seek to advance their education to
improve their employability.17 With fewer assets such as a higher education, work experience,
and a good income amongst single mothers, the path out of poverty often becomes difficult.18
Homeward Bound seeks to change the conditions that lead to intergenerational poverty,
conscientiously eliminating barriers and supporting single mothers in building on their own
strength and resilience so that they can gain employment with family-sustaining wages and
move out of poverty for the long-term. In the last five years, 78 single mothers have graduated
Homeward Bound having completed four years of intensive programming, including earning a
college degree. In addition, 20 women began the program but withdrew before completing, and
11 women began the program but were discharged before completing, resulting in a program
completion rate of 72%.
14 Canadian Teacher’s Federation. (2009). Page 1. 15 Nurius, P., Logan-Greene, P. & Green, S. (2012). 16 Ambert (2006) Page.7 17 Ajandi, J. (2011). 18 Ambert, A-M. (2006) Page 7.
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3.0 How Do We Know Homeward Bound is Working?
3.1 Evaluation Methods Since its inception Homeward Bound has consistently received positive feedback from
graduating participants, and preliminary assessments of the program’s impact from 2005 to
2007 suggested that up to 80% of participants gain employment after graduation.19 In 2013,
Boston Consulting Group worked with WoodGreen to analyze the social value created by the
program using basic Social Return on Investment (SROI) techniques. The 2013 SROI analysis by
Boston Consulting Group suggested that the program is creating at least $4 for every dollar
invested.
With preliminary evidence pointing to the program’s success in creating significant social impact,
scaling Homeward Bound has begun in communities across Ontario, including a cultural
adaptation of Homeward Bound by Indigenous Friendship Centres for the urban Indigenous
context. As communities move forward with scaling Homeward Bound the importance of
consistent outcomes measurement and deep understanding of program impact has been
highlighted.
In the spring of 2016, with support from Ontario’s Local Poverty Reduction Fund, WoodGreen
began a process of updating Homeward Bound outcomes measurement systems in order to
reduce measurement burden on staff, increase the quality and availability of information about
program outcomes, and enable outcomes measurement systems to be incorporated into
Homeward Bound partner communities. In undertaking this work, WoodGreen has partnered
with external evaluation experts at Constellation Consulting Group to ensure the highest quality
of objective assessment of program outcomes. Recognizing that the Homeward Bound program
has been updated and adjusted over the years, targeted assessment of the impact of new
program components, such as the Transitions to Success (TTS) employment readiness
component, has been an important aspect of the measurement system update.
As Homeward Bound moves forward with these important updates, in 2017 it was recognized
that a retrospective evaluation of participant outcomes from the past five years could garner
additional insights into program effectiveness, areas for program improvement, and key
questions for evaluation and measurement going forward. In the summer of 2017, the
evaluation conducted with individuals who had participated in Homeward Bound in the last five
years involved:
A reflective online survey for all participants who had completed Homeward Bound
within the last 5 years, as well as participants who began the program but withdrew
before completing.
19 For example, the program was assessed in 2006 by Patel, Leung, Cheng, Sarmiento, & Corter through the Atkinson Centre at the University of Toronto. The program was also assessed from 2005 to 2007 by Ekos Nomos consultants. Both assessments found preliminary evidence of program effectiveness and success in creating positive social outcomes for female-led households.
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Phone surveys with participants who were unable to complete the survey online.
The surveys included questions on housing status, employment, and income, which could be
compared with information collected by Homeward Bound when participants enter the program.
The surveys also provided space to qualitatively describe the impact of Homeward Bound on
survey respondents and their children, as well as observed areas for program improvement. See
Appendix A for survey questions.
Online survey invitations were sent to the 78 Homeward Bound participants who completed the
program in the last five years, and the 20 individuals who withdrew from the program in the last
five years. Surveys were not conducted with the 11 individuals who had been discharged from
the program in the last five years, as many no longer have valid contact information recorded by
Homeward Bound. Valid survey responses were received from 50 participants who had
graduated within the last five years, representing a 64% response rate. Of the 50 participants
who engaged in the evaluation, 49 completed the survey online and 1 completed the survey via
phone interview.
Existing participant intake records were used to compare changes that occurred for survey respondents from when they began the program to when they completed the survey. These program records were also used to analyze differences between survey respondents and non-respondents.
The demographics of those who participated in the evaluation were not, for the most part,
significantly different from those who chose not to participate in the evaluation, however
graduates who did not complete the survey had, on average, graduated longer ago than those
who completed the survey (3 years compared with 2 years). Those who did not complete the
survey were also more likely to have lower education upon entry to Homeward Bound (85% of
non-respondents had grade 12 education or less compared with 68% of respondents). While
respondents and non-respondents had a similar average number of children (1.6 compared with
1.9), non-respondents were more likely to have more than two children (10% of respondents
had more than two children, compared with 19% of non-respondents). See Section 3.0 for more
details on demographics of those who participated in the evaluation.
Only five withdrawn participants chose to complete a survey, representing a 25% response rate
and a non-statistically significant sample. Due to the low response rate amongst withdrawn
participants, comparative analysis and conclusions cannot be drawn with confidence at this time.
In parallel to the evaluation conducted with past Homeward Bound participants, WoodGreen has
worked with Constellation Consulting Group to evolve the preliminary 2013 SROI assessment
conducted by Boston Consulting Group into a robust and comprehensive SROI model that
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adheres to the internationally standardized SROI methodology and integrates actual program
data gathered through the 2017 evaluation. 20
SROI is a methodology for articulating and understanding the financial value of social outcomes
created through social investment. The SROI ratio produced through an SROI analysis indicates
how much social value is created for every dollar invested in a program, articulating in monetary
terms the social value of positive social outcomes. For example, an SROI ratio of 1 : 3 would
indicate that for every dollar invested in an initiative, three dollars is created in social value (the
value of outcomes achieved).While SROI enables social initiatives to speak about social outcomes
in the language of financial returns, it is important to note that the social value return calculated
through an SROI analysis is not equivalent to a financial return that would see the creation of
spendable dollars. Rather, it is better understood as an approach to valuing social outcomes
through financial measures other than standard economic indicators, such as GDP.21
Since new outcome performance metrics are currently being developed and implemented within
the Homeward Bound Program, the new SROI analysis was conducted using a combined
evaluative and forecast approach, building on key available evaluation information from the
Homeward Bound Program (including information from the 2017 evaluation survey) combined
with reliable external research to create an estimation of the social value created by the
program. Sensitivity tests were conducted to ensure the validity of any assumptions or
estimations that were made.22
3.2 Evaluation Limitations While attempts were made to engage in evaluation methods that would result in robust results,
there are nevertheless limitations to the study and generalizability of findings. First, although a
64% survey response rate amongst graduated participants is substantial, with a small total
population size of 78 graduated participants, a sample of 50 respondents only represents a
confidence level of 75%. This limits the accuracy of findings as they apply to the whole
population of graduated participants. Further, too few withdrawn participants were involved in
the survey to enable comparative analysis and, with no discharged participants engaged through
the evaluation, some comparative analysis opportunities may have been missed.
The study was also limited by the types of information gathered at Homeward Bound intake in
the last five years. No outcome-related information on children was gathered at intake during
this period, and intake information from women entering the program was not as detailed as
information gathered through the evaluation, somewhat limiting assessment of change over
time (e.g. information on whether participants were receiving benefits through employment
20 Internationally standardized through the Social Value Network International and outlined in: Nicholls, J., Lawlow, E., Neitzert, E., & Goodspeed, T. (2012) A Guide to Social Return on Investment. London, UK: The SROI Network. 21 See for example: Ravi, A., & Reinhardt, C. (2011) and the work of economist Joseph Siglitz in relation to well-being valuation. 22 Please contact WoodGreen’s Strategy and Innovation Team for SROI details.
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when they started the program was not collected at intake so no comparison could be made
with participants’ current situations).
Finally, and perhaps most significantly, the current study has not involved a control group,
limiting the assumptions that can be made based on findings garnered through the evaluation.
Although some comparison can be made with single mothers in Toronto generally, it is
recognized that the general population of single mothers in Toronto is not likely to be
comparable to Homeward Bound participants since Homeward Bound participants are generally
more disadvantaged than the average single mother (e.g. homeless, extremely low-income, etc.).
At the same time, Homeward Bound participants are possibly more motivated to change than
similarly disadvantaged single mothers who do not engage with the program.
While results from the 2017 evaluation are meaningful and impactful, ongoing evaluation
systems upgrading and pursuit of robust evaluation activities is needed to further advance our
understanding of the processes of change fostered by the Homeward Bound program.
3.3 SROI Analysis Limitations Since the SROI analysis of Homeward Bound has used data from the 2017 evaluation to
determine the social value of the program, it is subject to the same limitations as the evaluation
and has not included analysis of information from withdrawn participants.
Additionally, SROI is an emergent methodology for understanding and articulating social value,
and as an emergent methodology it is still evolving to address inherent limitations. In particular,
while SROI analysis uses innovative valuation techniques to assess the financial value of social
outcomes produced by social initiatives like Homeward Bound, it may never be possible to fully
articulate the value of social outcomes in financial terms, meaning the SROI ratio likely
understates the actual social value created by the program.
Further, without a control group for comparison, discounts included in the SROI have been based
on existing research, which may not consistently align with the lived-experiences of Homeward
Bound participants. Future research and ongoing evaluation can help create deeper
understanding of the change experienced by participants, and increase the robustness of the
SROI analysis model used to assess the social value created by Homeward Bound.
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4.0 Who Was Involved in the Evaluation?
In total, 50 unique Homeward Bound graduates engaged in the evaluation.
On average, survey respondents had graduated 2 years ago, with the time since their graduation ranging from less than six months to five years.
Homeward Bound aims to impact the lives of female-led families living in poverty, which may
include un/underemployment, low income, and/or precarious housing. Program records
revealed that:
46% of survey respondents were living in a women’s shelter or homeless shelter
when they started Homeward Bound. Others were living in market rental (44%), subsidized rentals (4%) or other housing (4%).23
68% of survey respondents had only achieved high school education or less when they entered the program. The other 32% of survey respondents had college or university education when they started Homeward Bound, though this education may not have been completed and/or recognized in Canada.24
94% of survey respondents were unemployed when they began Homeward
Bound and 6% were employed part-time.25
90% of survey respondents indicated their primary source of income at intake into
Homeward Bound was Ontario Works (including PNA). Others primarily received income through employment (4%), child support payments (4%), or ODSP (2%). 26
72% of survey respondents were Canadian Citizens when they began Homeward
Bound. Others were Landed Immigrants (20%), Sponsored Immigrants (2%), Convention Refugees (4%), or identified having ‘Native Status’ (2%).27
23 N=48 24 N=50 25 N=50 26 N=50 27 N=50
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Market Rental, 44%
Women's Shelter or Homeless Shelter,
46%
Subsidized Rental, 4%Other, 6%
Housing Situation at Intake to Homeward Bound
Amongst 2017 Evaluation Participants (N=48)
On average, survey respondents had 1.6 children when they began Homeward
Bound. 54% of respondents had one child, 36% had two children, and 10% had more than two children when entering the program.
When starting Homeward Bound, survey respondent ages ranged from 22 to 53, with an
average age of 33 years old at intake.
Less than Grade 12, 8%
Grade 12 or OAC, 60%
College, 26%
University, 6%
Education Level at Intake to Homeward Bound
Amongst 2017 Evaluation Participants (N=50)
Unemployed, 94%
Employed- Part-Time, 6%
Employment Status at Intake to Homeward Bound
Amongst 2017 Evaluation Participants (N=50)
Ontario Works (Including PNA)
90% Employment Income, 4%
Child Support Payments, 4%
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), 2%
Income Source at Intake to Homeward Bound
Amongst 2017 Evaluation Participants (N=50)
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Homeward Bound has a rigorous application process to ensure the program is accessed by single
mothers with demonstrated high need as well as demonstrated commitment to change,
strength, and resiliency. Based on survey respondent demographics upon entry to the program,
it is apparent that Homeward Bound participants are often facing deeper poverty, disadvantage,
and barriers than single mothers in Toronto overall. The unemployment rate and the rate of
Ontario Works access were much higher for mothers entering Homeward Bound in comparison
to single mothers in Toronto generally.28 Similarly, the rate of shelter use amongst Homeward
Bound participants was much higher than shelter use by single mothers in Toronto generally.29
Overall, while single mothers entering Homeward Bound are at higher risk of entrenched poverty
in the long-term, based on Homeward Bound entrance and application criteria, they are also
extremely motivated and committed changing their circumstances for themselves and their
families.
28 See for example: Monsebraaten, L. (2016, February 26).; Canadian Labour Force Survey data 29 YWCA Canada (2009).
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5.0 What Was Found Through the 2017 Evaluation? The 2017 evaluation of Homeward Bound revealed important learnings about the impact of the
program. Examining changes in housing status, employment and income source, and education
from when survey respondents began Homeward Bound to their self-reported status today, up
to five years after graduation from Homeward Bound, the outcomes are impressive. Beyond
quantitatively measured changes in housing, employment, and education, qualitative comments
from participants have highlighted the transformational nature of the program for themselves
and their children.
5.1 Factors Contributing to Homeward Bound Completion For individuals who participated in Homeward Bound in the last five years, the program
completion rate was 72%, with 18% of participants withdrawing from the program voluntarily for
various reasons (e.g. wanting to live with a partner, finding employment, choosing a different
path, etc.) and 10% of participants being discharged from the program for various reason (e.g.
non-compliance with program rules).30
Overall, 72% of those who begin Homeward Bound complete the program.
Those who complete Homeward Bound are generally slightly older, with an average age of 33 at
program intake compared to an average age of 27 amongst withdrawn and discharged
participants starting the program. Individuals who graduate from Homeward Bound are more
likely than those who withdraw or are discharged from the program to have three or more
children, although the average number of children amongst all participants is quite similar
(graduates having 1.7 children on average compared with withdrawn participants having 1.5
children and discharged participants having 1.4 children).
100% of participants who were immigrants or convention refugees when they
entered Homeward Bound completed the program.
Amongst Homeward Bound participants completing or disengaging from the program,
withdrawn participants were the most likely to be employed at intake, and discharged
participants were the least likely. Mirroring employment status, withdrawn participants were
the least likely to be accessing income support, and discharged participants were the most likely.
Considering the demographic profiles of those who are completing and not completing
Homeward Bound can, in the future, help inform participant selection to maximize program
effectiveness, however the mandate of the program to serve motivated vulnerable single
mothers should remain the primary driver of intake criteria.
30 Including 78 graduates; 20 withdrawn participants; and 11 discharged participants.
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5.2 Housing Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates Housing instability often contributes significantly to family stress and poor health for single-
parent families and research has shown that poor housing quality and residential instability
negatively impact children’s and adolescents’ development and functioning, including worse
emotional and behavioural functioning, and lower cognitive skills.31 This contributes to poor
academic performance as well as social and emotional problems amongst children experiencing
housing instability and poor housing conditions.32
The 2017 evaluation revealed that housing instability has decreased substantially for Homeward
Bound participants up to five years after graduation. Upon entry to the program, 46% of survey
respondents (22 people) were living in a shelter (homeless shelter or women’s shelter)
compared with only 1 survey respondent currently living in a shelter or hostel.33
Remarkably, 92% of participants who were living in a shelter when they started
Homeward Bound are now living in market rental (77%), subsidized housing (9%),
or a home they own (5%).34
Of those entering Homeward Bound from market rental, most returned to market rental (57%)
or advanced into home ownership (5%). Others indicated they had moved to subsidized housing
(5%), a rooming house (5%), or living with family/friends (24%).35
Overall, 67% of survey respondents are now living in market rentals and 8% now
own their own home.
31 Pomeroy, S. & Marquis-Bissonnette, M. (2016); Coley, R. L., Leventhal, T., Lynch, A. D., & Kull, M. (2013). 32 Leventhal, T., & Newman, S. (2010). 33 N=48 with pre housing status information; N=47 individuals with matched pre to post housing status responses 34 N=22 individuals who were living in a shelter when they started Homeward Bound and had a matched post 35 N=21 individuals who were living in market rental when they started Homeward Bound and had a matched post.
1 participant (2%)
1 participant (2%)
1 participant (2%)
3 participants (6%)
4 participants (8%)
6 participants (12%)
33 participants (67%)
Eviction inProgress
Rooming House
Shelter/Hostel
Family SubsidizedRent
Home Owner
Living withFamily/Friends
Market Rental
Homeward Bound Graduates' Housing Situation
Up to Five Years After Graduation (N=49)
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5.3 Education Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates Poverty is both a barrier to completing post-secondary education and often a consequence of
not completing post-secondary education.36 Particularly for single mothers, the financial and
social barriers to post-secondary education limit ability to successfully further educational
attainment, resulting for many in greater difficulty escaping poverty.37 This in turn decreases
their children’s likelihood of completing post-secondary education, perpetuating the cycle of
poverty.38 When single mothers complete higher education, it advances not only their social
capital but also the social capital of their children, increasing the likelihood that their children will
complete high school and go on to post-secondary education.39
Upon intake to the program, nearly two thirds of survey respondents had Grade 12 as their
highest level of educational achievement (64%).40 To graduate Homeward Bound, participants
must complete a two-year college program in one of four fields of study identified by the
program as employable:
1. Early Childhood Education (ECE)
2. Business/Human Resources (HR)
3. Networking/IT support
4. Legal assistance (law clerk program)
All survey respondents who entered Homeward Bound with a Grade 12 education or less,
graduated with a college education in an employable field. The other 32% of survey respondents
who had college or university education when they started Homeward Bound, may not have had
education in employable fields or may have had post-secondary education that was not
recognized because it was completed outside Canada. These participants also graduated
Homeward Bound with a college education in an employable field.
100% of survey respondents graduated Homeward Bound having completed a
college degree in an employable field.
In total, 65% of survey respondents studied business/HR, 17% studied legal administration (law
clerk program), 13% studied Early Childhood Education, and 6% studied networking/IT support.41
Pursuing and accomplishing additional education can lead to a desire for continued skills
development. Since graduating from Homeward Bound, 26% of survey respondents indicated
they had pursued more education, including training related to their employment, additional
36 Deming, D., & Dynarski, S. (2009). 37 Ajandi, J. (2011). 38 Ferguson, H., Bovaird, S. & Mueller, M. (2007); Aronson, P. (2008). 39 Gofen, A. (2009) 40 N=45 41 N=48
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certification, and university.42 Several participants also indicated that in the future they plan to
pursue further education advancement opportunities.
5.4 Employment & Income Outcomes for Homeward Bound Graduates Employment is one of the key outcome goals of Homeward Bound because higher incomes
obtained through employment are directly linked with single mothers’ ability to move out of
poverty.43 Upon intake to Homeward Bound, 94% of survey respondents (47 people) were
unemployed.44 Currently, only 6 survey respondents (12%) are unemployed, and all indicated
that they are looking for work. Another 4 respondents (8%) indicated that they are currently on
maternity or some other type of leave from work, and 1 respondent indicated that they are not
working currently because they are in school.45
Overall, 78% of survey respondents are currently working (full or part time) after
graduating from Homeward Bound, representing an employment rate of 87%
amongst graduates.
Overall, the program results in extremely high-risk and vulnerable female-led families moving
from an unemployment rate of 94% at intake to the program to an unemployment rate of only
13% up to five years after graduation. The after-graduation unemployment and employment
rates are identical to Toronto-based single mothers generally, suggesting that the program
42 N=49 43 See for example: Aletha et al. (2005); Misra, J. Moller, S., Strader, E., & Wemlinger, E. (2012) 44 N=50 45 N=50
Employed Full Time, Permanent Contract (58%)
Employed Full Time, Fixed-Term Contract (10%)
Employed Part Time or Casual (10%)
On Leave from Work(Maternity or Other) (8%)
Going to School (Not Working) (2%)
Unemployed, Looking for Work (12%)
Homeward Bound Graduates' Employment Status Up to Five
Years After Graduation (N=50)
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
15
moves families from extreme vulnerability to lower-risk situations. The labour market
participation rate amongst Homeward Bound graduates, however, is higher than that of single
mothers in Toronto generally, sitting at 90% compared with 75%. 46
Upon entering Homeward Bound, the employment rate amongst participants
was 6% compared with 87% up to five years after graduation.
In total, 79% of survey respondents who were unemployed when they began Homeward Bound
are now employed.47 Of the three participants who were employed part-time when they started
Homeward Bound, one is still employed part-time, one is now employed full-time, and one is
currently unemployed but looking for work.
Up to five years after graduating from Homeward Bound, many survey respondents indicated
that they are working in the fields in which they studied. For survey respondents who are
currently working full or part time, the most common occupations include:48
o Early Childhood Education (ECE or RECE) (14%)
o Customer service (including sales and product support) (14%)
o Office administration (including executive assistants and office managers) (11%)
o Law clerk/legal assistant (9%)
o Human resources (9%)
46 Canadian Labour Force Survey, 2016, Single Mothers, Toronto. 47 N=41 48 N=35
1 participant (2%)
1 participant (2%)
1 participant (2%)
1 participant (2%)
4 Participants (8%)
4 participants (8%)
5 participants (10%)
5 participants (10%)
28 participants (56%)
Unemployed toIn School (Not Working)
Employed Part-Time toUnemployed
Employed Part-Time toEmployed Full-Time (Permanent)
Employed Part-Time to Employed Part-Time
Unemployed toEmployed Part-Time or Casual
Unemployed toOn Leave from Work
Unemployed to Unemployed
Unemployed toEmployed Full Time (Fixed-Term)
Unemployed toEmployed Full Time (Permanent)
Changes in Employment Status for Homeward Bound Graduates Up to Five
Years After Graduation (N=50)
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
16
Other occupations of Homeward Bound graduates include things like analysts, consultants,
physiotherapists, accountants and accounts managers, financial planners, personal trainers,
underwriters, and change management specialists.
As part of the supports towards employment provided by Homeward Bound, internships are
arranged for participants after they have finished, or while they are finishing, their college
program through the Homeward Bound Industry Council. In total, 35% of survey respondents
indicated that they are still working with the employer with whom they completed their
internship, and 17% indicated that they had worked with their internship employer for a period
of time after Homeward Bound before moving on.49
Of those who are working full or part time, most have been working with their current employer
more than a year (79%), and just over half have been working with their current employer more
than two years (55%).50 78% of respondents indicated that they had only had 1-2 jobs since
graduating from Homeward Bound.51 These findings suggest that employment obtained after
graduating from Homeward Bound is relatively stable.
For single mothers, employment with benefits can be extremely important as they work to
support the health and wellbeing not only of themselves, but of their child(ren).52
88% of survey respondents who reported having full time employment also
reported receiving benefits through their employment.53
50% of survey respondents indicating they have part time employment also indicated that they
receive benefits54 and 75% of those on leave from work (maternity or other leave) indicated that
they receive benefits.55 This suggests that, not only is employment obtained after Homeward
Bound stable, it also provides key supports that enable families to thrive.
The before tax incomes from full time employment now earned by survey respondents range
from $20,800 per year to $70,000 per year with an average income of $43,000.
On average, full-time employed survey respondents reported earning
approximately $43,000 per year.
49 N=48 50 N=42 51 N=47 52 Kalil, A., & Ryan, R. (2010). 53 N=33 54 N=4 55 N=4
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
17
While the sample size is small, the connection between field of study while at Homeward Bound
and income earned through full-time employment after graduation suggest studying
IT/Networking and Business/HR may lead to the highest post-graduation incomes.
Homeward Bound aims to support single mothers in obtaining employment with ‘family-
sustaining wages’ defined at income equal to or higher than $35,000 per year.
Overall, 77% of survey respondents who now have full time employment are
making $35,000 per year or more.56
Another 20% of survey respondents with full time employment indicated that they make
$25,000-$34,999 per year and only 1 respondent indicated they make under $25,000 per year in
full time employment since graduating Homeward Bound.
For those survey respondents working part-time, annual part-time income was reported at an
average of approximately $19,000 per year.57
For these individuals, the employment income earned after participating in Homeward Bound
represents a significant shift in income source and level. Upon entering Homeward Bound, 90%
of participants were accessing income support through Ontario Works (including Personal Needs
Allowance (PNA)) as their primary source of income.58 This compares with only 15% of
56 N=35 57 N=35 58 N=50
Average income: $67,450
Average income: $44,123
Average income:$37,827
Average income:$34,120
$0 $10,000 $20,000 $30,000 $40,000 $50,000 $60,000 $70,000 $80,000
IT/Networking (N=3)
Business/HR (N=21)
Law Clerk/Legal Assistant (N=5)
Early Childhood Education (N=5)
Average Annual Income by Field of Study of Homeward Bound
Graduates Up to Five Years After Graduation (N=34)
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
18
participants accessing income support through Ontario Works up to five years after graduation
from Homeward Bound.59
The average amount received through Ontario Works for participants entering Homeward Bound
was $11,645, with 31% receiving only $10,000 or less per year. According to the Canadian
Centre for Policy Alternatives, the current Ontario Works benefit rates for single parent families
annually leave families at least $10,000 below the poverty line. 60 The average amount earned
by Homeward Bound graduates who are now employed full time is nearly four times the average
amount received by participants through Ontario Works.
84% of survey respondents who were accessing income support through
Ontario Works at intake now have income from full- or part-time employment.61
Amongst survey respondents who indicated that they are currently unemployed, the average
length of time they have been without work is 11 months and all indicated that they have been
looking for work.62 No significant correlations were found between demographic profiles of
participants and employment or income after graduation.
Qualitative comments from survey respondents reinforce the importance of the positive
employment and income outcomes supported by Homeward Bound. In their own words,
participants said things like:
5.5 Outcomes for Children of Homeward Bound Graduates When children experience poverty, the instability that often comes along with that poverty can
increase the likelihood of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and negative outcomes such as
poor academic performance, delayed cognitive development, poor mental health, less
59 N=48; NOTE: One participant indicated they were working part time and receiving support through Ontario Works. 60 Thiessen, K. (2016). Page 13. 61 N=39 62 N=9
It was a wonderful program that has given
me skills to always be able to network and
stay current within employment.
It was a life changing experience. I
could not have a job like I do without
Homeward Bound’s help.
Being an immigrant and without Canadian education and being a single
mother Homeward Bound helped me to open the opportunity to join the
work force and provide for my children. I am so grateful.
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
19
participation in extra-curricular activities, lower career aspirations, interrupted school
attendance, lower university attendance, an increased risk of illiteracy, and higher drop-out
rates.63 Children growing up in poverty are also more likely to become lone parents,
perpetuating a cycle of intergenerational poverty and barriers to advancement.64
Since Homeward Bound does not currently collect data beyond basic demographic information
of children when their mothers begin the program, comparative measurement of outcomes for
children from the start of their mothers’ involvement in Homeward Bound to up to five years
after graduation has not been possible in the current evaluation. The evaluation survey,
however, asked graduated Homeward Bound participants whether they felt their children
benefited in any ways because of their involvement in Homeward Bound.
92% of survey respondents felt their children had benefited or somewhat
benefited from their involvement in Homeward Bound.65
Qualitatively, survey respondents described many perceived benefits of Homeward Bound for
their children. Many participants talked about their struggles with poverty and providing a stable
home environment for their children prior to coming to Homeward Bound.
The most commonly cited benefit of Homeward Bound for children was
increased stability.
Other benefits for children that graduates articulated included:
Increased safety
Improved school performance due to tutoring, mentoring, and reading circles
Benefits from supportive out of school care and activities for their children
Increased socialization and positive peer connections
Increased access to and interaction within a positive, child-friendly, environment
Participants also described the ways in which their own self-development journey through
Homeward Bound was inspiring for their children and increased their family’s confidence and
resilience. Many respondents indicated that, overall, the lives of their children were better
because of their experience at Homeward Bound.
63 Canadian Teacher’s Federation. (2009). Page 1; Nurius, P., Logan-Greene, P. & Green, S. (2012). 64 Ambert (2006) Page.7 65 N=48
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
20
In their own words, survey respondents said things like:
My child benefited in many ways. Especially not
having to see the struggle of making ends meet.
There was never any worry about meals, a roof
over our heads or an unsafe environment. All
major hurdles/obstacles were taken care of,
leaving me free for self-improvement and
spending quality time with my child.
My child benefited through my opportunities and learning. We
both became better advocates for ourselves and each other.
My daughter thrived through this
program, was given a great daycare
opportunity, met and played with many
children, as well as secure housing while I
focused on my goals.
My child was able to get involved
in activities. My child was also
able to watch his mom grow as a
person. I became a better mother
because of Homeward Bound.
My children are able to live a financially stable
lifestyle since I completed the Homeward Bound
program. I am able to pay for my son’s sports such
as soccer and capoeira. I am also able to pay for
family vacations that I often take my children on so
they have a worldly experience.
Homeward Bound provided a better
life for [my children] by providing
direction for me and more stability.
My daughter was safe and was
able to be a child and live a
peaceful early childhood.
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
21
5.6 Perspectives on Program Satisfaction and Personal Impact Homeward Bound graduates participating in the evaluation were asked to qualitatively describe
what the ‘top three best things’ about Homeward Bound were for them. The most frequently
cited ‘best things’ were:
1. The opportunity to increase education without taking on debt
2. The opportunity to live in safe and stable housing while participating in the
program
3. The employment-related supports provided by the program and resulting
increased employability
Participants also indicated that child care was an important aspect of the program and that the
social connections made through Homeward Bound were (and in many cases still are) positive
natural supports. Survey respondents described significant positive changes in their self-esteem,
self-awareness, independence, and empowerment due to the program. Reflecting on the impact
of the program on their lives, many participants articulated that Homeward Bound had given
them greater confidence and had inspired hope for the future. In their own words, participants
said thing like:
Homeward Bound completely changed by life and
bettered me as an individual and mother. I will forever
feel indebted to the program and those who helped
me create a life for myself and my child.
The best part was the amazing
opportunity to get my life together as a
single mom who wanted to strive to
make a better life for her children.
It is a life changing experience
for me. I found a new me
because of this program.
The environment this
program created gave
me immense HOPE and a
desire to push and
believe for more.
The best part was the recognition
and encouragement for participants
to gain their confidence back.
[Homeward Bound] was a very positive
experience, certainly got me back on my
feet and gave me a feeling of hope and
looking forward to the future.
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
22
5.7 Areas for Program Improvement While participants qualitatively described the life changing nature of Homeward Bound and
objective measurement has demonstrated remarkable outcomes from the program, there is
always room for program improvement. Wanting to capture lived-experience perspectives on
areas for improvement, the evaluation asked survey respondents to identify the top three ways
in which they felt Homeward Bound could be improved. While several participants indicated
that they felt there were no ways in which Homeward Bound could be made better, others
articulated key points for improvement.
The most common way in which survey respondents felt the program could be improved was
through additional transition/exit planning support and follow-up support after exiting.
Participants felt that the program provided significant supports that transformed their lives over
the four years they were involved in the program, but many felt the transition out of the
program was difficult, with significant uncertainty around employment, housing, and stability.
They indicated that a greater focus on exit planning and the possibility of additional support after
exit would strengthen the program and generate even greater positive impact.
The second most commonly cited area for improvement was the internship and employment
component of the program. While survey respondents indicated they appreciated their
internship experiences and many are still working with their internship employer, several
participants felt the internship experience could be improved through more internship
opportunities, a broader Industry Counsel of employer partners, longer internships, and/or more
paid internship opportunities. Participants also suggested that a greater focus on employment
readiness, networking, and career counselling could create a smoother transition to long-term
employment. Homeward Bound has already recognized this possible area for improvement and
in recent years the employment readiness component of the program has been enhanced by the
Transitions to Success (TTS) program component. Going forward, it will be interesting to see if
suggestions for improvements in this area shift away from the need for more employability
support as the TTS component is offered to new participants.
The third most common way in which survey respondents thought Homeward Bound could be
improved was through offering more career stream options. Participants felt that having only
four college program choices limited their ability to pursue career opportunities in areas of
interest, and that a broader array of options would support participants in finding meaningful
employment and pursuing their passions.
Other areas for improvement listed by survey respondents included:
o More mental health, counselling, family counselling and/or psychiatric supports
o Stricter implementation of rules, particularly rules for guests in housing component
o More lifeskills workshops/resources (e.g. financial literacy, parenting, etc.)
o Increased security and/or better housing maintenance supports
o Creation of opportunities to give back while in the program and afterwards as alumnae
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
23
6.0 How Much Social Value is Generated by Homeward
Bound Outcomes? The outcomes generated by Homeward Bound also create important social value for
participants, their children, and government systems. Analyzing the Social Return on Investment
(SROI) created by these proven outcomes can reveal learnings about the value of investing in
Homeward Bound by demonstrating how much social value is created for every dollar invested.
Using the 2017 Homeward Bound evaluation results to analyze Homeward Bound’s social value
and evolving the Boston Consulting Group’s 2013 SROI analysis to adhere to the internationally
standardized SROI methodology, it was revealed that:
For every dollar invested in Homeward Bound,
approximately six dollars in social and economic value is created.
This SROI result suggests that significant social and economic value is created through
investment in Homeward Bound’s holistic four-year support for single mothers. It is important to
note, however, that the SROI analysis of Homeward Bound represents a conservative estimation
of the total value created, since conservative estimations were made throughout the analysis
and it may never be possible to fully capture the value of social outcomes in financial terms.
Further, the social value created by Homeward Bound is likely much higher, as outcomes
included in the analysis were considered to last only during the time a participant was involved
with Homeward Bound and directly after their involvement, without consideration of longer
term impact on women and their children that is likely generated by the program (e.g. child’s
trajectory based on decreased experience of poverty, mother’s ongoing career advancement,
etc.).
The social value created by Homeward Bound accrues to participants, the children of
participants, and governments at various levels. Most of the value (69%) goes back to
participants in benefits they experience due to the program, such as housing stability during
their four years in the program, increased education, and better employment opportunities.
Approximately 6% of the estimated value goes to the children of participants while they are
involved in the program and experiencing the supports provided by the program. The SROI
analysis has conservatively estimated the value to participants’ children as estimated future
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
24
value for children has not been included, and tangential benefits experienced by children via the
positive outcomes experienced by their mothers have not been estimated and valued. Finally,
25% of the social value created by Homeward Bound goes back to various levels of government
in cost reallocation due to decreased government service use by Homeward Bound
participants.66
Overall, the SROI result indicates that the program is a significantly worthwhile investment,
creating positive social value for participants, their children, and governments.
66 Please contact WoodGreen’s Strategy and Innovation Team for SROI details.
Participants, 69%
Government, 25%
Children of Participants, 6%
Homeward Bound SROI Value
Breakdown by Stakeholder
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
25
7.0 Where do We Go from Here? The evaluation of Homeward Bound conducted in 2017 revealed that the program is creating
positive social impact and transforming lives. The evaluation results clearly demonstrate that the
program is positively altering the trajectories of single mothers in Toronto and their children,
supporting the creation of positive long-term outcomes that are breaking the cycle of poverty.
The SROI analysis revealed that these life-changing outcomes have significant social value for
participants, their children, and our social systems, creating six dollars in social and economic
value for every dollar invested. While some areas for improvement were identified, overall the
evaluation results suggest that the program is meeting its goal of enabling un/underemployed
and/or precariously housed single mothers to gain employment with family-sustaining wages so
that they and their families can move out of poverty.
Based on the evaluation and SROI findings, the following four recommendations for future
directions are put forward:
1. Continue the program and seek opportunities for expansion or scaling.
Based on the evaluation and SROI results, it is clear that Homeward Bound is creating
positive social impact and social value. Continuing the program will enable scores more
single mothers to move out of poverty and create better lives for themselves and their
children. Expanding the program in Toronto or continuing to scale it in other
communities can help maximize the social impact and social value created, expanding the
program model’s transformational effect to even more female-led families.
2. Communicate Homeward Bound’s positive social impact by sharing the
evaluation and SROI findings. The positive outcomes that Homeward Bound creates
in housing, employment, and income are nothing short of remarkable. Sharing the
program model created by WoodGreen and seeking opportunities to contribute to the
literature on what works can lead to recognition of WoodGreen’s program as a
best/promising practice and can support other communities in designing effective
programming for single mothers. Sharing the demonstrable positive social impact created
by Homeward Bound can also help attract supporters and investors.
3. Seek opportunities to enhance transition and follow-up support for
participants to further enable positive outcomes. Throughout the four years of
Homeward Bound, significant supports are provided to participants to decrease barriers
and enable positive outcomes. Barriers, however, are not likely to completely disappear
after the program and additional transitional planning for overcoming setbacks and
continuing in positive directions may further enhance the outcomes produced by
Homeward Bound and decrease the stress of transitioning upon graduation. Further, as
new challenges arise, follow-up outreach support may benefit alumnae in sustaining
positive outcomes. This could include alumnae engagement activities that create a
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
26
structure for maintaining positive social connections and natural supports, giving back to
the community, and reaching out when help is needed.
4. Pursue ongoing program evaluation activities and revisit the SROI analysis
model regularly. While the current evaluation has effectively engaged Homeward
Bound graduates in a retrospective study and has had the opportunity to match some pre
to post data, further evolution of evaluation systems to ensure consistent and strategic
data collection will further advance knowledge and understanding of what is working and
what could be improved about the program model, ultimately enhancing the program
over time. Using data collected over time, an increasingly robust SROI model can be
built.
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
27
Appendix A: Survey Questions
Graduated Participant Survey: Preamble: Thank you for choosing to participate in the Homeward Bound feedback survey! Constellation Consulting
Group has been hired to help Homeward Bound improve their program so that people like you can have the best
experience possible. We would like to ask you a few questions about your experience with the program to better
understand what is working and what needs to be improved. We would also like to ask you some questions about
your employment, income, and housing situation to understand how things have been going for you since you
completed the program.
Your information will be kept confidential with us. This means that any information you provide will not be shared
with your name attached. Your choice to participate in the survey or not participate in the survey will not impact
your relationship with Woodgreen, Homeward Bound, or any staff.
You are free to stop the survey at any point. The survey shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes to complete. In
appreciation of your time, once you have completed the survey we will electronically send you a $10 gift card.
If you have any questions or would prefer to chat on the phone rather than completing the online survey, please let
Cate White know at [email protected] or 403-923-7611. If you would like more information about
our consulting group, please visit: www.constellationconsulting.ca.
Homeward Bound Feedback Survey March 2017
1. Your name (for survey tracking purposes only):
2. What is your current housing situation?
□ Homeless (street)
□ Shelter/Hostel
□ Family Subsidized Rent
□ Market Rental
□ Home Owner
□ Living with family and/or friends
□ Rooming House
□ Other (please specify)
3. What is your current source of income?
□ Employment income (working full or part time)
□ Employment Insurance (EI)
□ Ontario Works (OW)
□ Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
□ Crown Ward
□ Child or spousal support payments
□ Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB)
□ Spousal Income
□ CPP/OAS
□ Prefer not to say
□ Other (please specify)
4. If you are working, please select the description that best describes your current employment situation:
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
28
□ Working full-time - permanent contract
□ Working full-time - fixed-term contract
□ Working full-time - seasonal contract
□ Working part-time
□ Not working right now but looking for work
□ On maternity/paternity or other type of leave from work
□ Self-employed
□ Other (please specify)
5. If you are working, what is your occupation/job title?
6. If you are working, approximately how many hours do you work per week?
7. How much do you usually make before taxes? (Feel free to fill in the estimation that is easiest for you)
□ Yearly:_________________________
□ Monthly:_______________________
□ Bi-weekly:______________________
□ Weekly:________________________
□ Hourly:_________________________
8. If you are working, do you receive benefits with your employment (e.g. health, dental, etc.)?
□ Yes
□ No
□ Don’t know
□ Prefer not to answer
9. If you are working, approximately how long have you been with your current employer?
10. If you are working, are you still working with the employer with whom you completed an internship through
Homeward Bound?
□ Yes
□ No, and I did not work with that employer at all after Homeward Bound
□ No, but I worked with that employer for a period after Homeward Bound
□ Don’t know
□ Prefer not to say
11. If you're not employed right now, how long have you been out of work?
12. How many jobs would you estimate you’ve had since finishing Homeward Bound?
Thank you for helping us understand your current housing and employment situation! We appreciate your
willingness to share these things with us. Now, we would like to ask you a bit about your experience with Homeward
Bound. Please remember, your responses will be kept confidential.
13. What were the top three best things for you about Homeward Bound?
1. ________________
2. ________________
3. ________________
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
29
14. What were the top three things you feel could be improved about Homeward Bound?
1. ________________
2. ________________
3. ________________
15. Do you feel your child(ren) benefited at all because of your involvement in Homeward Bound?
□ Yes
□ Somewhat
□ No
□ Don’t know
16. In what ways do you feel your child(ren) benefited or did not benefit from Homeward Bound?
17. Have you pursued more education since completing Homeward Bound?
□ Yes
□ No
Please explain_______________________________________________
18. Is there anything else you would like to share with us about your experience in Homeward Bound?
19. Thank you for sharing your information and perspectives with us today! In appreciation of your time we would
like to send you a $10 electronic gift card. What would be the best email address to send this to?
We appreciate your time and participation in this survey. If you have any questions or would like to share anything
else, please let Cate White at [email protected] or 403-923-7611.
Withdrawn Participant Survey: Preamble: Thank you for choosing to participate in the Homeward Bound feedback survey! Constellation Consulting
Group has been hired to help Homeward Bound improve their program so that people like you can have the best
experience possible. We would like to ask you a few questions about your experience with the program to better
understand what is working and what needs to be improved. We would also like to ask you some questions about
your employment, income, and housing situation to understand how things have been going for you since you
completed the program.
Your information will be kept confidential with us. This means that any information you provide will not be shared with your name attached. Your choice to participate in the survey or not participate in the survey will not impact your relationship with Woodgreen, Homeward Bound, or any staff. You are free to stop the survey at any point. The survey shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes to complete. In appreciation of your time, once you have completed the survey we will electronically send you a $10 gift card. If you have any questions or would prefer to chat on the phone rather than completing the online survey, please let Cate White know at [email protected] or 403-923-7611. If you would like more information about our consulting group, please visit www.constellationconsulting.ca. Homeward Bound Feedback Survey March 2017
1. Your name (for survey tracking purposes only):
2. At what point did you withdraw from the Homeward Bound program? □ Boundless possibilities for Women
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
30
□ College □ Internship □ Other, please specify?
3. What were the issue(s) and/or reason(s) for withdrawing from the program?
4. What were the top three best things for you about Homeward Bound?
1. ________________ 2. ________________ 3. ________________
5. What were the top three things you feel could be improved about Homeward Bound?
1. ________________ 2. ________________ 3. ________________
6. Have you pursued more education since leaving Homeward Bound?
□ Yes □ No
Please explain_______________________________________________
7. Is there anything else you would like to share with us about your experience in Homeward Bound?
Thank you for providing some feedback on your experience with Homeward Bound! We are also hoping to understand how much Homeward Bound impacts things like housing and employment by comparing information from people who withdrew from Homeward Bound with information from people who completed Homeward Bound. We would like to ask you a bit about your current housing and employment situation. We appreciate that this information is personal and anything you share with us will be kept confidential. In appreciation of your time and willingness to share these things with us, we can send you a $10 electronic gift card for completing these questions.
8. What is your current housing situation? □ Homeless (street) □ Shelter/Hostel □ Family Subsidized Rent □ Market Rental □ Home Owner □ Living with family and/or friends □ Rooming House □ Other (please specify) 9. What is your current source of income? □ Employment income (working full or part time) □ Employment Insurance (EI) □ Ontario Works (OW) □ Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) □ Crown Ward □ Child or spousal support payments □ Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) □ Spousal Income □ CPP/OAS □ Prefer not to say
Homeward Bound Past Participant Evaluation Results, 2017
31
□ Other (please specify)
10. If you are working, please select the description that best describes your current employment situation: □ Working full-time - permanent contract □ Working full-time - fixed-term contract □ Working full-time - seasonal contract □ Working part-time □ Not working right now but looking for work □ On maternity/paternity or other type of leave from work □ Self-employed □ Other (please specify)
11. If you are working, what is your occupation/job title?
12. How much do you usually make before taxes?
(Feel free to fill in the estimation that is easiest for you) □ Yearly: □ Monthly: □ Bi-weekly: □ Weekly: □ Hourly:
13. If you are working, do you receive benefits with your employment (e.g. health, dental, etc.)? □ Yes □ No □ Don’t know □ Prefer not to answer
14. If you are working, approximately how long have you been with your current employer?
15. If you're not employed right now, how long have you been out of work?
16. How many jobs would you estimate you’ve had since leaving Homeward Bound?
17. Thank you for sharing your information and perspectives with us today! In appreciation of your time we
would like to send you a $10 electronic gift card. What would be the best email address to send this to? We appreciate your time and participation in this survey. If you have any questions or would like to share anything else, please let Cate White at [email protected] or 403-923-7611.
Appendix B: Resources Consulted Ajandi, J. (2011). “Single Mothers by Choice”:
Disrupting Dominant Discourses of the Family
Through Social Justice Alternatives. International
Journal of Child, Youth and Family Studies. 3 &4, 410-
431.
Aletha et al. (2005). Impacts on Children of a Policy to
Promote Employment and Reduce Poverty for Low-
Income Parents. Developmental Psychology, 41:6,
902-918.
Ambert, A-M. (2006) One-Parent Families:
Characteristics, Causes, Consequences, and Issues.
Ottawa, ON: The Vanier Institute of the Family.
Aronson, P. (2008). Breaking Barriers or Locked Out?
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